Encyclopaedia (definition)

En*cy`clo*pe"di*a, En*cy`clo*pae"di*a (?), n. [NL., fr. Gr. , for , instruction in the circle of arts and sciences: cf. F. encyclop'edie. See Cyclopedia, and Encyclical.] [Formerly written encyclopaedy and encyclopedy.]

The circle of arts and sciences; a comprehensive summary of knowledge, or of a branch of knowledge; esp., a work in which the various branches of science or art are discussed separately, and usually in alphabetical order; a cyclopedia.